NOVEL NEXT Chapter 74: 74
Vivi recalled the grueling year of training on Sky Island, where she pushed herself day and night to grow stronger. She didn't want to be a burden, didn't want to be left behind.
Now, hearing that Tony wanted her to stay here for two years, she couldn't hold back her tears and began sobbing uncontrollably.
"!!!"
Tony was at a loss for what to do, flustered by her reaction. He quickly tried to comfort her.
"Vivi, you've misunderstood. How could I ever abandon you? The reason I want you to stay here for two years is to awaken the swordsmanship talent that lies dormant within you."
"Training under Master Rayleigh will be the best way to enhance your strength. You know, back in the day, Master Rayleigh's swordsmanship was on par with the Pirate King Roger himself."
"Having such a teacher guide you—how can you not be excited about that?"
"And think about it: with that strength, you'll be able to protect our crew... and Alabasta as well."
Vivi sniffled, her tearful voice tinged with grievance.
"Of course I'm excited to learn from such an incredible master... but... I'd much rather spend every day adventuring with you and everyone else."
"Two years is such a long time."
Tony was struck by the weight of her words. He realized how selfish he had been, imposing his own ideas on his crew without considering their feelings. He had done the same back on Sky Island, making decisions unilaterally without proper discussion.
Even as their captain, he owed them basic respect and communication. What he believed to be the best course of action might not align with what they truly wanted.
Vivi didn't desire a grand plan. She just wanted to stay by his side, simply and sincerely.
A pang of guilt pricked at Tony's heart. He reached out, gently stroking her azure hair, catching the faint, soothing fragrance that clung to her.
At this moment, Tony understood Vivi's feelings more clearly than ever before.
Leaning against his chest, Vivi looked troubled, yet there was a newfound resolve in her vulnerability.
For the first time in her life, Vivi was being bold.
Tony, moved by her courage, wrapped his arms around her naturally, cradling her as he patted her head. The rapid rhythm of their hearts was unmistakable in the quiet night.
Unbeknownst to them, Nami and Robin were watching from a distance, their gazes filled with complex emotions.
"Ugh... that sneaky little cat!" Nami grumbled, clenching her small fists in mock frustration.
"Hehehe, looks like Vivi got ahead of us," Robin said with a soft chuckle.
Although there was a hint of jealousy between them, neither harbored any resentment.
In their eyes, Tony was an exceptional man, destined to attract attention. They had long accepted the likelihood that they wouldn't be his only admirers.
After all, in the world of pirates, such situations were far from uncommon. Polygamy wasn't rare, and they were well aware of this reality.
Still, there was a faint sourness in their hearts.
Unconsciously, both women rested their chins in their hands, their minds wandering.
They began daydreaming about when Tony might...
The thought alone made their faces flush deep red, and they quickly snapped out of it, embarrassed.
Shakky, observing the scene from the side, chuckled softly.
"Ah,Little Tony's got his work cut out for him in the future. He's much more charming than you were at his age, Old Ray."
"Heh, of course. He's my apprentice, after all," Rayleigh said smugly. "With his charm matching his strength, it's no wonder the girls flock to him."
After a while, Vivi's turbulent emotions began to calm. A newfound determination took root in her heart as she made an important decision.
Smiling through the lingering tears, she lifted her head to look at Tony.
"Tony... I'll stay here and train under Master Rayleigh."
Tony shook his head gently, smiling back at her. He didn't want to force her to stay.
"Vivi, you don't have to push yourself. We can go to the New World together—"
Before he could finish, Vivi placed her hand over his mouth, silencing him.
"No. This is my decision. I want to become strong—strong enough to be your strength one day."
"I'll study Master Rayleigh's swordsmanship with everything I have. I promise, I won't let you down."
Tony saw the unwavering determination in Vivi's eyes and decided not to say anything more. Deep down, he understood why she had made such a sudden decision.
Looking at this woman who cared so deeply for him, Tony felt a warm sense of gratitude in his heart.
Vivi, now free of any lingering doubts, fully realized that Tony had no intention of abandoning her. With a lighthearted laugh, she turned and skipped joyfully back toward the bar, leaving Tony standing there.
"Master Rayleigh! Please guide me well for the next two years!"
Her gaze was steady, and a newfound confidence radiated from her as she ran up to Rayleigh and bowed deeply.
"Good, good, hehe," Rayleigh chuckled, his face lighting up with a satisfied smile.
He could see clearly that this young woman before him was destined to become a worthy successor to his swordsmanship.
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